Predator tactics and prey densities modulate the strength of trophic interactions in a temperate rocky reef

Evaluating the species-specific effects of multiple predators on shared prey helps to identify the mechanisms regulating predator impacts. Here, we investigate the trophic impact of two predators of the Chilean rocky subtidal, the fish Graus nigra [F] and the octopus Robsonella fontaniana [O] on their shared prey, the porcelain crab, Petrolisthes violaceus. Manipulative laboratory experiments were performed to evaluate mortality and behavior of porcelain crab in different treatments, including prey alone; prey with single predator ([O] or [F]); and prey with combined predators ([F + F], [O + O], and [O + F]). Different prey densities (N = 3, 9, and 12 individuals) were used to explore density-dependent predation mortality for single and combined predators using an orthogonal (crossed) design that allows to tease apart the effects of predator taxonomic identity from prey density. Behavioral responses of interacting species were registered every 4 h for 2 consecutive days, and were used to identify predator foraging strategies and prey refuge use. Mortality values (proportional prey mortality and predator per capita consumption) were compared among treatments. Results indicated differences in mortality among treatments. The cause of increase of prey proportional mortality was due to an increase in prey availability outside the refuge in fish treatments at high initial prey densities, while it was density independent in octopus' treatments. Changes in predator per capita consumption were registered depending on the predator combination and the initial prey density. These patterns may reflect contrasting predator foraging strategies and changes in refuge use by porcelain crabs, suggesting effects on prey mortality and predator impacts.

Automated summary

The study looked at the trophic impact of two predators on their shared prey, the porcelain crab, in different treatments. Results showed that the effects of different predators on prey mortality varied depending on the initial prey density.